Update! Our Experience Buying a House in Puerto Vallarta Mexico

[@patparr6697]

So great meeting you at La Carreta today - turned on the TV and guess what popped up!!! Cool to see your house. We’re friends with Paula Castaneda (Hacienda San Angel) who’s mother, Janice Chatterton, started the SPCAPV. Glad you’re sheltering the cats until the former owner can re-home them!! Hoping to see you again!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Great to meet you guys today! We never met Janice, but she is definitely still a presence on our hill! Look forward to keeping in touch!

[@499PUCK]

Hi just a tip mosquitos are attracted by scent. Perfume and soaps with smells are magnets. One thing they hate is Skin So Soft by Avon.

[@mjc42701]

I have been using Skin so soft for many years and it works, I live in central Virgina, our summers are very humid, lots of mosquitos, from early evening to morning, the SSS is the best and of course makes your skin soft. = )

[@bewellstaywellnetwork]

Haha...you guys...I was wearing Skin so soft. That’s how “good” it works. They don’t care if I am wearing deet either.

[@melann4065]

@@bewellstaywellnetwork Hello and congratulations. Any concerns with losing USA protection in the advent of a problem in Mexico. Not planning on any issues but you never know.

[@frostfree7]

Eating garlic also repels them; eating bananas attracts them.

[@dv4072]

i have lived in pv for 18 yrs now.wish i had bought house then.good video good luck.

[@darinmurphy60]

Hi! My wife is a Puerto Vallarta native, with most of her family still living there. We live in the Seattle area, and bought a home in Vallarta about 3 years ago. We live in the US most of the time, and spend time in Vallarta during the winter. I will be arriving there around the middle of November this year, staying until after the end of the year. We would love to meet you :)

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Very good! We'll be down in your travel window! We can be reached at [e-mail]. Look forward to catching up!

[@DarlesaCahoon42]

Thanks for sharing your experience, will continue to follow you and hopefully hear more!

[@MrLorir100]

I love the tile work , your home is beautiful. and your videos are very informative, we are hoping to buy in mexico soon , thanks for sharing youe experiences.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks Lori for your comments! Enjoy the house buying experience!

[@pinchegato3370]

Your house is absolutely amazing! I hope one day i'll buy a house like yours in PV. I'm in love with PV and can't wait to get back there. Saludos

[@mimishepard8298]

I love PV! You guys are living my dream.

[@SandyDoughty]

My heart aches to be back in Puerto Vallarta, as soon as the Covid is gone I will be back!

[@โชคดี-ฌ4ง]

Thanks for sharing so much useful information. May try to move there next year.

[@stephaniemcgreevy4496]

Thanks, just wanted to let you know, I really tried to listen but it was just too hard. But will follow because I love what your doing

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Stephanie McGreevy that is a bummer! It may be a combination of our echo downstairs and your speakers. On KZbin you can turn on close caption that captures about 80% of the words right. Hope that helps! ... and thanks for watching!

[@XavierLeong]

Great story, super interesting and detailed video!

[@MasseyKouhssari]

Aloha from California, really enjoyed your story. Very inspiring

[@JAGTravel]

Hi guys! thanks for your videos they are always super helpful and sweet! We bought a small casita in Vallarta in October of last year and are currently working on renovations. Now we have a big decision to make and it's a very difficult one for us... We don't know if we should install electric or gas water heaters. the previous owner didn't have any (they used an electric instant shower). A few things to consider: house is 200 steps from the closest road (previous owner said they deliver the gas tanks up there but you have to tip them extra...), our house has 2 levels, level 1 is a small separate apartment (future rental) and the 2nd unit is our place, so there'll be demand for hot water from 2 showers. Also, another thing to consider is that I've been told that electricity is expensive in Vallarta (haven't experienced this one yet, so we don't know). But I would like to know what you guys think and any suggestions from your experience with water heating! :)

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sounds very familiar! Electricity is quite expensive. I don’t think much of an issue for showers (more for AC) and do know the electric hot water on the shower head is common (although kinda crazy to have an electrified shower head). We thought of an electric on demand water heater for showers, but what we ended up with and is most common for Gringo buyers we know is a larger gas tank that they fill up with a hose and that can last quite a long time (we show them filling the tank in our last 2020 video - they have a VERY long hose to fill our in-place tank). The gas we then use for: cooking, an on-demand water heater for our hot tub, and a small regular water heater for our showering. The regular water heater is super tiny compared to US standards, but works pretty well. Hope this helps!! Cheers, Stefan

[@JAGTravel]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico Thanks for your response! So, you think an electric water heater won’t make the electric bill too high? I have a feeling the gas hose doesn’t reach that high unfortunately. 😓

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

@@JAGTravel you may want to check out how far their gas hose can go, you may be surprised! Electric water heaters for hot tubs do cost a lot in electric bills to continuously heat. Just for showers, an on demand electric heater may not be too bad, although the heater itself may be expensive. Let us know what you decide!

[@buildingbuildercip8292]

Tile will not solve your water issue. It is only a temporary fix. The block structure behind it... is likely being structurally compromised. Efflorescence is a huge problem for block walls. Find the source of the leak and stop it or detour it away from your structure.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Almost all houses where we live are up against the hill’s bedrock on the ground floor, so difficult to address. We are keeping an eye on it though! Another issue is just general paint peeling due to humidity.

[@situationnormal7695]

Thanks you for posting this! We’re buying in PV in the next 5 years!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Situation Normal Excellent! We thought the same thing and bought on our next trip. Be forewarned! 🤗

[@savvysouljar]

Thank you for sharing. I will be visiting PV next week.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Enjoy your time in PV!

[@cherylkelly8009]

Yes, please watch out for the dengue!!

[@dennishassler605]

I'd love to find a fixer-upper like you have and I've followed your videos. We have a HUGE house to sell and we'd like to move to PV once we sell it. We have two guest houses we use for Airbnb rentals. I've maintained and upgraded house all my life, but with the cost of labor in PV I would not have to work a lot.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Our real estate agent said that he gets a lot of inquiries of folks interested in places like ours. They are a little harder to find now and more expensive, but relative to price increases in the US and Canada, still are OK. As you mention, labor cost is a lot less, so anywhere you can focus on that is good. Here is just an example. Happy hunting! my.flexmls.com/ampimls/search/idx_links/20121120155711416234000000/listings/20210204223008435327000000?_filter=MlsStatus+Eq+%27Active%27+And+PropertyType+Eq+%27B%27%2C%27E%27&listing_id=20210204223008435327000000&view=map

[@jimnoti3097]

Hearing about having to close the windows due to cats and also having mosquitos - why do the windows not have screens on them (I do know that is normal to not have screens in some countries) but can you not get screens added to the windows?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

You can put screens in, but it’s not at all that common. Mosquitos at least where we are at (in my opinion - stefan here) are not too bad and cost is more about losing the open air view.

[@stephaniemcgreevy4496]

I was hard to hear everything you were saying, not sure if it was the echoes Just thought I’d mention it ! Gonna try and listen again ;-) Very interested in same endeavor

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks, we are not the best -- usually something is a little quirky! We were downstairs so a bit of an echo with all the concrete.

[@thispizza7183]

Great info . how is it with the covid 19. Were hoping to make it down there 2021 week 4 and 5. Are the taco stands open by the the orange bus rest stop and begin pick up stop going south. There is a taco stand i love over there.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sorry for the late response as we have been checked out a little bit. Things are close to normal (a little too normal) for us. Do check out our latest videos. Cheers

[@SaraFJones]

Any chance you guys are willing to do Airbnb? I love your home and view! If you have a free room for a few months, would love to visit!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks for the interest. Unfortunately not at this time, but there are a number of AirBNB’s that are in the El Cerro and Cinco de Diciembre area that you can find. Also, check out this Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/PVEverythingYouNeedOrWantToKnow/?ref=share. Cheers!

[@duanewolgast4165]

You guys are great! Very down to earth. I will spend a month there and Costa Rica early next year to decide where to settle from Dallas Texas.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Duane Wolgast Thanks for the comments! Enjoy your travels. We spent some time in Central Costa Rica and the on the Osa Peninsula as well. Beautiful country!

[@Kitiwake]

Do your speak Spanish?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Pat Aherne Stefan here... I had 4 years of midwest high school Spanish that gets me by and is improving. Ada is similar, not as many words put has a perfect accent ( I am envious!)

[@chanelsmith1985]

For the water & gas, do they just drive around to see if anyone needs a refill or do you call them & they come?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

We’ve got good city water piped in and use a filter. Usually local stores have the big bottles and periodically you’ll hear a person yelling “ciel” who is selling water. For gas, they have trucks drive around that play a little music jingle like an Ice cream truck. You can also call them too. ❤️

[@arnoldthorstenson1374]

I use Lemon Grass plants for mosquitos around our house, good tea too. What is the tax on your property in Mexico?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Property tax is super minimal in Mexico… Think price if a dinner.

[@cristinaparedes9556]

Loved this video very helpful information 👌🏼 thank you 🙏🏼 planning on moving there 🔜🇲🇽🏝

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks. Enjoy the journey!

[@denisebanto3185]

Thank you! I have been thinking about going to Mexico. Not that we are where we are in time, how is it to cross the border? Im thinking about going ava finding a place to stay just to stay for the winter and explore before settling in, Sept or October 2021.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

If you fly in it is super easy, not sure about driving in. Enjoy!

[@JimJones762x39]

Nice to see a new vid from you guys. Ill be in PV in 12 more days

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Jim Jones Have fun!

[@pbjsilverstudio4882]

Thank for sharing such helpful information. My husband and I are considering returning to Mexico and Vallarta is one of the places we are think of. We are planning to visit next year and if you’re there at that time, we would love to talk to you! But you dinner! 😃 My husband is a Washington state ferry boat captain and I am a full time metalsmith/studio jeweler.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Pamela Bellesen Sounds great! Feel free to send us an email at [e-mail] when your plans get finalized... hopefully we can coordinate a time!

[@pbjsilverstudio4882]

Awesome! Will do! It will be in September.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

@@pbjsilverstudio4882 Perfecto!

[@CandycaneBeyond]

Want to know more about the water

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Not sure if you've seen this one yet. Thanks for watching! kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2q7ZmV8edSSaNE

[@elvaplascencia7419]

I love the sounds of the life when I go to Guadalajara I feel alive compara to here in Arizona you can hardly see your neighbors can’t wite to retaire back to my country after living most of my life here

[@Majikmind72]

Best video ever! I'm seriously considering moving to Puerto Vallarta in the future and you guys video hit so many things! Thanks again and I wish u two the best! (Liked and subscribed) 💯❤️💥🌹

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks!

[@munozconnie]

you forgot to mention the cockroaches, our apartment the only way they can get in is thru an opening in the roof that goes into the washroom, we have sealed everything off..in the year and a half of living in our place, have only seen 4 of them, but others complain about ALOT of them because of the openness. my husband actually helped our landlord convert part of their house into another apartment at the start of the summer, and its definatly different. He did use dry wall for a small open area that separates the two places. Hopefully no problems later on after watching your video. i like the tile idea for that wall. we noted a similar problem and my husband mudded it several times, still coming thru, its a ceiling though, hoping this works, but i wonder can you use tiles for a small bathroom ceiling? everything has been checked, seems like similar problem you have. great video ....the humidity has been horrible for us this summer compared to last summer, we are actually running our AC which we never do...how are you all doing with it? even with all, i feel grateful everyday to be a resident here.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

connie munoz Ah yes, the cucarachas! We did mention them briefly by that friendly name, but you might have missed it. Luckily not a problem for us, but every so often we’ll find big ones outside. Our daughter walks with a flashlight as she is not a big fan. Agree on the humidity... crazy humidity as of late! On tile, this we are a big fan of. Key thing here is to ensure folks install it correctly with a waterproof barrier underneath. So far so good with ours! Completely dry this summer. Thanks for the detailed response!

[@munozconnie]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico - we live in cinco full time for last 16 months. might see you sometime around pv, it is actually pretty small.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

@@munozconnie Very True! Say hello if you run across us!

[@armandob.castenelli3525]

The wall came out amazing... Love it. Gosh talking about mosquitoes, just go up to the Dakotas, millions of mosquitoes follow you everywhere. I don't know if they understand English or have dengue, but I'm pretty sure they do. Holy crap If you din't say that was a moth, I would have thought it was a bat. LMAO!

[@midnittkr]

Hola.....my name is Steve and I am 63 from Cincinnati. I am considering retiring in PV as I have been doing tons of research and looking at 100 videos and thats how I found yours. i was wondering how much a place like yours would rent for. I don't need to live in the city but would like to see the ocean, even in the distance. All I really want is a small 1 bedroom maybe 2 as I am divorced after 35 years of marriage (i know bummer right). Have some cash saved up but I was wondering if it really is possible to live modestly for $1500/social security a month USD. All I really want is a place that has a view of the ocean with a little tiny private rooftop area to sit...ac and internet are the only must haves. Is that possible or am I in dreamland. I would rent to start and then maybe consider buying at some point. Thanks so much for any help you can provide.... mi Español is sketchy but I do know a little and am a quick learner. I was born in San Diego and grew up in LA. I also lived just north of Miami for almost 5 years so I know about heat and humidity. Muchas gracias for any help I am planning on coming down the first week of March to look around and get a feel for the area

[@ShauninParadise]

I live a little north of PV in a small town. $1500 a month is really difficult in the area nowadays. Yes, you can live within a 15-20 min drive of the ocean for that budget with some good searching, but even a sliver of an ocean view is probably hard. Running AC at night only in one room during the summer months is also going to add up faster than you'd like (I speak from experience here). Buying a little condo apartment can still happen esp if you like a fixer upper but renting is going to be challenging. Super sorry about your divorce, hope you find your path :) I live in and love this area so much, but there are other areas that haven't been developed (yet) along the coast to the north and the south. Places with less expats etc. I would also look at the area around Mazunte in Oaxaca - as it was just hit with a hurricane recently you might be able to find some deals and the place seems gorgeous, too. Be well! - Shaun

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sorry we ran into your comment a little late. KZbin sometimes works in mysterious ways! Unfortunately we can’t help you much - Shaun’s comment is pretty good. I do think you can find a solution. What you might want to do is take a trip down the coast to smaller towns and just start meeting people and seeing what they have to offer. My guess is you might meet someone that has a place that fits your needs, you just need to find them. Hope this helps in some way. All the best to you. Mexico can be a great place to renew yourself.

[@cristinaserrano-jessup5889]

plants on the outdoor patios? Is there a problem with water dumping on a neighbor? Your house is beautiful!!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Cristina Serrano-Jessup Thanks. Oh, many things fall on the neighbors and us. AC units drip, rain in the summertime can cause a torrent from the roof. Some folks have washing machines that drain right into the street. We don’t have any plants in/on our house, but others do and they also drip. Part of the experience!

[@sandiemallan7447]

Hi :) We have really enjoyed watching your videos. Of all the places I have traveled, Puerto Vallarta is the first and only city I truly felt I would love to live in and own property. My partner and I love the simplicity of your apartment, and how you selected something that you could leave without fear of theft. We are also interested in owning and living there part time in a residence similar to yours. We are around the same age, have no interest in a resort style community with a bunch of "amenities" but rather would love a simple apartment like yours suitable for ourselves, the kids (16 and 21) my parents (although stairs may present a problem for my father - was this a consideration for either of you? aging parents visiting etc.)no interest in having it as a rental property either. Is there any sort of HOA fee? I can't recall if you mentioned this before or not. At any rate we'd love to meet the two of you some time when we're down next. you're quite inspiring to us both. Regards from Sandie in Vancouver BC

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sandie Mallan Sandin, thanks for your kind note. As a coincidence I was in Richmond BC today for some work! (Stefan here). Do let us know when you make it down. No HOA, so cost is super minimal. We did have to balance the stairs as a cost, as it is limiting for our friends in not so good health to visit. My mom who had/has stage IV cancer visited in 2017 and climbed the hill to see our place before we even owned it which was inspiring. Although she is hanging in there beating the odds with cancer, unfortunately my parents are no longer in a state to travel. When our daughter is in school my parents will stay at our place in the US for a little bonding, allowing us to travel down. Works out for all. All the best!

[@sandiemallan7447]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico so nice to wake up to your reply this morning. Too bad you had to be in BC when it's pouring in rain :( We will be in PV in a few weeks although just on a cruise this time so passing through. That's wonderful your parents are able to watch your daughter while you're away; hope your mom recovers expeditiously. We'll let you know when we are down again :)

[@ivettedelatorre9645]

Hello nice meeting you and Youre friend! 👏👏👏🏝️🏖️🏄‍♂️🇲🇽🎼👉 I have a friend that lives in Vallarta to and she is looking for nice friends to hang out.

[@mrbear3487]

The view wow

[@gigi-jeff]

I’d be having a hard time refraining from using that amazing hand painted tile on your table!!! 🌸🌸🌸

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Oh yes! In time this will happen!

[@allenmiller1627]

How much would it be to rent a house like yours?

[@koegl9]

Thanks for a down to earth PV summary🤘 We’re re-thinking buying expensive propert and or house in El Dorado County and making PV part of our lives. Going to Cancun in August but wish it was PV since our Friends here in the central valley purchased propert there a year ago--both Mexican nationals. I speak Spanish mas o menos but have always wanted to greatly improve it by living in another country. My wife kills it since ella es de Peru😁 . Well I look forward to watching the rest of your videos.

[@koegl9]

I meant were trying to decide on El dorado county or PV🤔

[@russellmackie8756]

Hi, this is the first of your videos I've found. Thank you. If you wanted to spend part of the year in the US how hard would it be to rent your house to some vacationers? Make your house (any house) a part-time vacation rental.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

It is quite easy in the high season to rent. We don’t rent our current property, but from what I (Stefan) know is that there are a lot of rentals by word of mouth. Taxes are a consideration (AirBnB takes this out I believe) and also the ability to rent as a foreigner - something just to look at to do it right, although I think many folks cut corners here… possibly someone else can chime in here. I think there will be a strong market in the future for rentals. The biggest consideration is if you’ll want to be there mapping to the same time as high rental demand.

[@russellmackie8756]

Thanks you very much.

[@voltnmx225]

hi I just subscriber...…..what about the monthly cost

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Martin Guevara really really really inexpensive. Most expensive cost is the trust we have to get as a foreigner, which is under $500 usd a year. The second is either utilities or what we pay someone to clean /open up our place periodically when we are not around.

[@cindyleeger]

Hi, love your place and the view!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thank you! ❤️ it is our happy place.

[@cindyleeger]

Did you have any damage from Nora ?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Nothing at all as we are protected by the mountains and are up on the hill. Most of the damage in PV was related to flooding that was quite bad.

[@cindyleeger]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico I’m glad you are ok, really quite sad about the damage.

[@davelutter396]

Just found your channel. Thanks for the info. Have you dine a video on the actual buying process, specifically the money transfer from US bank to Mexico to pay for your PV home?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

We haven't yet, but the buying process was relatively simple for us. We used David Hoffman at Tropicasa and he had it down. Typically (at least for us as a US buyer buying from a Mexican owner) escrow was held in the United States. One unique point is that when you purchase from a Mexican owner, traditionally they hand over the keys to you. That was a very Poignant experience for us. Cheers

[@stephanies870]

I love your tiled wall

[@andrewthacker114]

Love the sound of roosters and trains going by.

[@SergioChavezmundo-ecuestre]

There is no train in Puerto Vallarta. lol

[@sr9253]

Do you have a garage or own a car? It must be hard driving on those streets.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Yes, these streets are tough on cars! We do not have a garage or a car. We walk most places and uber is relatively inexpensive. It is quite freeing for us not to have a car here!

[@richardsummersill2537]

Hello, We will be visiting in March. We are staying in the Zona Romantica and wanted to know if there are banks close by. We would like to use their ATMS for pesos. I have watched a few of your vids and find them very informative. Thanks for all of the great info!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks Richard! There are a number of ATMs including at the airport - if you haven't yet, check out our airport video that shows where they are at. In Zona Romantica, ATMs are in a number of places. There are ATMs by the InterCam Bank and a block our so around Daiquiri Dick's plus other places. Just be sure you give your bank notice you are traveling to Mexico beforehand. Have fun!

[@maryrotert3267]

I visit MX frequently. Lots of ATM's around. Helps to know Espanol so you can read the screens Be aware there is usually a daily limit (e.g. 5000 pesos) that you can withdraw per card.

[@cristinaserrano-jessup5889]

What was the outcome of the water in the wall issue after you tiled?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Cristina Serrano-Jessup It worked out great and transformed the area to be usable. The contractor coated the wall with a water barrier before the tile install which helped. Completely dry now!

[@sr9253]

Do you live there full time and work remotely? Are there art classes and volunteer opportunities for retirees?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Hey SR, plenty of volunteer opportunities! See our mid life video for our situation.

[@situationnormal7695]

What is a good Realitor that you can recommend? Last time I was down I think the guy was just trying to steal a downpayment on condos that haven’t been built yet. Also my friend is looking as well.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Situation Normal We went with David Hoffman at Tropicasa. I (Stefan) had a similar job at the same company as David earlier in my career, so knew we’d likely think alike. Super straightforward /organized for us and he didn’t mind we were going low priced and didn’t expect to buy (although we did). It was a surprise to us that we found he was on HGTV for a few of episodes (don’t let that scare you). His team even took care of many of our bills after we purchased for a while until we got all the utility payments under control/ understood. Very easy experience.

[@angelnorwind6813]

Lots of hotel in Cancun area has bad sewage smell. How is Puerto Vallarta?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

It is not bad in PV generally. We did have a small problem and resolved not having a p-trap, which is common here: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trap_(plumbing)?wprov=sfti1

[@alohadave13]

Really enjoyed your video...

[@leticia_v6404]

Think both of you are 😎. Made a wise decision beautiful view.

[@rosaabate4953]

Yes beautiful view , of them being welcomed with open arms . By the Mexican people , while the Mexicans 🇲🇽 living here in the United States 🇺🇸 . Are being mistreated , accused of taking their jobs . And even the ones that have been , borne here . And for generations , are subject to prejudice , Mexico 🇲🇽 is such a beautiful Country ! Full of history , culture , beautiful beaches , Arts 🎭 , Crafts , from Ocean 🌊 to desert 🌵 , museums , and of course the most hospitable people ! That welcome 🙏🏿 all foreigners , there’s Koreans . That have been for over 200 years , Italians 🇮🇹, Japanese 🇯🇵, Africans etc ! And people from all over the world 🌎. And more recently you g people , that are marrying Mexicans ! And for those who don’t know , or don’t care to know ! They need a little history lesson , and they will be surprised !

[@rightright6582]

Music a bit loud vrs voice, a distorted voice effect as well. Love ya guys,

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Correct! We are definitely not vlogging professionals!

[@TheTwoTravelersInMexico]

Nice video, very informative.

[@luyzqint3760]

You should make some of those noises your ringtone...Gaaass✌️😜 P. D. I think is time for a new video.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Luyz Qint Correct! Sitting here in a hammock thinking of the next one!

[@luyzqint3760]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico How about the difference in your social life between Mexico and the US?.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Luyz Qint The difference is very big. In the US everyone has obligations and is working for a mortgage... lots of “Hi Bye” neighbors where we live. In Mexico, we connect with locals and expats an have our calendar full meeting lots of interesting folks. One of the best things about Puerto Vallarta.

[@wadewave4323]

HA HA HA .... propane...GLOBAL GAAAAAAASSSS ... we hear it as well. Just moved permanent from Toronto to Emiliano Zapata. Love your vids!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Thanks!! Got to love it, especially when you DO need gas! ;o)

[@wadewave4323]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico ours is provided by the condo...no worries here. are you guys down here now?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Yes we are, but sadly on the the move shortly. Love your drown videos BTW!

[@wadewave4323]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico Thanks...not as many drone laws here in Mexico. When you get back we will have to go for a margarita :)

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

@@wadewave4323 Definitely!!!

[@JorgeLopez-dg7ei]

What did you pay for your place? How many rooms?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

We put our offer in late 2017, so prices have gone up a bit. The way we couch it is that the house was the price of a Tesla and the renovations were the cost of a Prius. We were lucky in that our home was a traditional/local house in a nice area. A lot of work needed to be completed to still be rustic, but to our standards (no electrical outlets in showers, new concrete roofing, etc.) On one floor there was no sink, so you had to wash your hands in the shower, that sort of stuff. It is now three and a half stories, two full bedroom, two full bath with a small loft for another bed and work area. We also packed in three more beds in other rooms, so we have 6 beds that sleep 9. Key with buying in our opinion is to purchase something a typical expat or snowbird would not want to buy-- something that requires renovation, and then renovate at a lower cost. House prices are starting to get up there to US levels, but construction cost is more labor based and is a lot cheaper in Mexico if you keep with concrete, steel, and tile construction.

[@Becky_Cal]

Hi there, loved your video! Most of all, I really like your attitude toward Mexico and living in Mexico. You both seem very kind, open and willing to engage in the local culture. I’m from LA and have lived in Mexico City. I’m looking to buy property in Puerto Vallarta with the hope that it will be my retirement home in the future. I’m a single woman so am doing this on my own and have no idea how to get started. Would really appreciate your guidance/help! If you have Instagram, I can direct message you. Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sorry we missed your comment! We can be reached at [e-mail]. Happy to help!

[@leticia_v6404]

Bay Area 😎. I'm from Martinez CA Bay Area. ❤

[@animallover4955]

But where is the water coming from?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sepal provides the water and waste treatment. It is known to be quite good, but we still filter! www.seapal.gob.mx/

[@fv1291]

Hello there, I just discovered your channel and really enjoy it! We were in P.V. for Thanksgiving last year, and will be back this winter for our third time because we love it so much. I have an off topic question though. Last year at our hotel, the management placed little candies in the shape of a heart on our bed, as well as flowers, and a note as a Thanksgiving treat which we loved. Question is, the little candies were multi-colored, and wrapped to looks like miniature tamales of all things! Not only were they cute, but they were muy sabroso, and would make some great Christmas gifts to bring back home :) Have you seen them being sold anywhere in P.V.? I've looked at our local Mexican markets and even in Tijuana, but nothing of the sort. I'll make sure to say hello if our paths cross on one of our many visits to your beautiful new home town.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Filbert V Sounds good! We’ll keep an eye out for those candy tamales! Do say hello if you run across us while in town!

[@fv1291]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico Thanks, I remember seeing the Super Colchones store near the marina, and thought they sold super underwear, or chones. I need more Spanish classes! 🤭

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

@@fv1291 Y yo tambien!

[@fv1291]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico 😄

[@transformer889]

We looked at some property there but what scared us was that a property can be own by several people, they wait for a foreigner to buy it then the OWNERS show up, the reason is there is not a central place to register a property, so it can be registered in different cities, especially the land the property is on, so we decided against buying anything there and end up in court.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Definitely something to consider as many properties are not ready for sale as, say, the grandparents owned the property and it got passed down by multiple generations. The good news is that if you go with a reputable real estate agent and the seller goes with a real estate agent, they both will ensure the title is set and legitimate. Often times you see folks trying to sell directly, and that is a recipe for not a good ending. Additionally, once an offer is in escrow, there is quite an extensive search for liens, etc. that takes the bulk of the closing time while money sits in escrow in the US. There is always risk in any international transaction, but ultimately we felt pretty confident in the end and the risk/reward couldn’t be beat for us. All the best!

[@transformer889]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico We were staying at Mayan palace, across the street a major construction had come to stop due to land dispute, that goes to show not even major corporations are not immune to corruption in that country. the point is to go with your eyes wide open to what you might face, like others, have had suggested maybe renting is a better option. I hope it all goes well with you.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

@@transformer889 Agreed! Have to be careful as there are more risks in Mexico. We took an educated risk on our place - in 2017 we booked a vacation on 2 days notice and ended coming back home with an offer to buy a house that was accepted. Kinda crazy, but this was established logically when all the stars aligned. Initially we were planning to buy in 5 years, exchanged and felt comfortable with our realtor, etc. key for us was the lower price of our home as a fixer upper (we were placing less money at risk), understanding that legal paperwork of the title was in order, meeting our future neighbors who were quite nice and shared their renovation cost and experience, and knowing our home was in a desire-able location (albeit WAY up a hill by foot). We are rarely impromptu but this worked out. Renting is also a great idea. Enjoy whatever you choose! Cheers

[@richardfabulich6033]

​@ Financing now available for US citizens in all of Mexico, purchase or cash out refinancing!

[@chirp78]

Did your contractor speak English? Do you speak Spanish?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

A little bit of both with some Google translate mixed in!

[@wisearts1724]

Can you edit the music out, please. It's really difficult to hear what you are saying. Thanks.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

These were our first videos… you’ll find later videos are much better on audio!

[@romanvansanchez1]

Hi, thank you for the video. I have a question. In PV what neighborhood is quiet? take care.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

PV is a bustling location in general. The further you get up the hill in El Cerro or 5 de Diciembre, the quieter it gets, but there will always be roosters! South of the Romantic Zone is Amapas which is more quiet, but it is a tough balance because if you want less noise, there will also be less liveliness. El Centro is nice, or anywhere near the water where it is flat, but there you have a lot more traffic noise. We give the noises a lot of play in our videos, but we have a bit of a love / hate relationship with noise as where there is noise there is also community and it is part of the Mexico experience. Hope this helps!

[@onetry7406]

I'd like to know about your internet - if one were to work remotely, what kind of challenges might they face?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Internet is decent, but not fiber where we live. I can do video conference calls fine. If there is a thunderstorm, power can go out, but not often. As a fallback we have a mobile phone plan for all of North America. For instance, AT&T is quite strong here. In a pinch we could do video conferences off of our phone's data in a pinch with no problem. The only real issues as we are in the city is noise. Part of living in the city, but sometimes roosters are hard to explain on a call. ;o)

[@onetry7406]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico Thank you! Yes, roosters might be uncomfortable to explain. lol

[@darinmurphy60]

I have a remote office in PV, and have subscribed to 2 different internet providers to provide a little more reliability in case one of them goes out.

[@CARLARMIGUEZ]

Hi, we have several internet suppliers now, but most of them depend on the area. Telmex is the largest one and a lot of areas have been supplied now with optic fiber, also cable companies cover most of the city with this service with a very good quality service. However if you need extremely high speed service this is possible but will be necessary to check areas for this service.

[@carric9962]

I thought you had to be a citizen to buy and truly own property in Mexico? Im new to all this and dont know what's true. I just remember hearing that.. This is the 1st video of yours I have seen so I apologize if you have explained already.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

No worries. You own a trust (Fideicomiso) and the trust owns the house. The only downside is the annual cost of the trust which is very roughly $500 USD or so.

[@goalaspect]

Hi - I retired to Philippines - is far to go on a plane - wondering about Mexico - and your area there. Do you hire a local to clean and do other chores daily? Do you get Massage there and how much for 1 hour? How is the weather - rainy season June to November or ? Is it safe there or have to watch when go and where go? How is the Internet? Do you have electric brownouts and if so how many per month? And lastly - roughly how much to rent a 1 bedroom condo in a nice area - gated maybe etc?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Hey Dean, We can answer a few of your questions, but do check a number of facebook groups that can help. Here is the biggest one: facebook.com/groups/PVEverythingYouNeedOrWantToKnow/. Labor in general is relatively inexpensive. We just pay some of our local neighbors to help clean before we arrive and after we leave. Electricity has been very solid... maybe just a few hours down in the last year at our house - we keep our fridge running year round and have had nothing spoil. Internet is quite strong. We are up on a hill and can't get fiber yet. As far as internet consistency, it is quite good. Overall Puerto Vallarta is very safe -- just watch yourself as you would anywhere and don't do bad things. Rentals can be inexpensive if you lock in for an entire year. Obviously just doing holiday months can make things pricey. We actually like rainy season in the summer months. Great sunsets and thunderstorms where you'll get rain often times once a day, but not constant rain. Things are quiet in the summer. Hot and humid, but nothing terrible -- just less people as the snowbirds from cold country are back up in their northern homes. Hope this helps some!

[@MrLorir100]

I love the sound of the church bell!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

All about the Ambiance!

[@joann5157]

Some of your conversation was very difficult to hear, particularly when you turned away from the camera or sort of muttered.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Sorry about that - still learning how to do videos right when we made this one… (and still learning!) Thanks for watching!

[@Radio280]

Is she a Mexican? I know that foreigners aren't allowed to own property on the beaches straight out. We lived in GDL for 13 years...in the states now, but would like to retire in PV. The thing is we don't know all the neighborhoods in PV. Can u explain more about all the different areas in PV please. It's good that u took that black moth out. Mexicans are associating them with death. The tiles are lovely btw.. We worry about the humidity too. What about solar panels and A/Cs?C? The gas truck usually do those noises in poor areas, otherwise they come, do their job and go. Mexico can be noisy yes...Did u guys have a budget to buy a house?

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Hey Mariana, AC is expensive to operate, so we have it in our bedroom and run it at night mostly. Solar panels are a good idea. Owning is not a problem, you just need to get a trust. The trust owns the property and you own the trust. Ada is not a Mexican citizen yet, although that may change as her mom is from Mexico. In this video we talk about some of the neighborhoods in central vallarta: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3jUpGmJoqqmiqs. Have fun!

[@buildingbuildercip8292]

Those cats that are hanging around...probably used to live in your condo with the previous tenants.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Likely their kitty parents or grandparents!

[@richardmccombs617]

Feral cats are not bad, the eat things that you really don’t want to see . Mice, rats, scorpions....

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

This is true!! More funny than anything, but we are worried about locking a cat in. There are no rats or mice in our neighborhood!

[@Kitiwake]

Audio is bad.

[@beverlydonaldson3205]

Moth balls will deter cats

[@barbaracovey]

The desire to play music through your video made it very difficult to hear what you guys were saying.🙃It’s a great video otherwise!

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Robin95 It happens! 😁 We are doing it less in our later videos. Thanks for the comment!

[@dodgeplow]

Azulejos

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Gracias!

[@dodgeplow]

@@LivingSimplyinMexico de nada. thanks for making the video

[@goalaspect]

I would just rent - costs not much if you do a yearly deal - live around gringo's for safety and know how. And you can move if not like your neighbors or neighborhood etc - be safe out there.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

Dean Peterson that I what a number of our friends do - even for decades. Really about what you are looking for & that can work too!

[@lolastarr8738]

Prices always go way up when Americans start buying

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

True

[@forzajuve4845]

That moth looked like a bat

[@theresakunda4407]

Bad video. Distracting music. Mundane.

[@LivingSimplyinMexico]

We are masters of bad videos, distracting music, and the mundane! (Made even worse by middle age-ness in full swing) Thanks for the validation. 🤗